King Charles’s Congressional Address Draws Epstein-Related Criticism

On Tuesday, King Charles III addressed a joint session of the U.S. Congress during a state visit. He praised the “vibrant, diverse and free societies” of the United Kingdom and United States and said supporting victims of societal ills is essential. The remarks earned applause from many lawmakers, including President Donald Trump and Senator Lindsey Graham.

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Three days after the first anniversary of Virginia Giuffre’s suicide, the King’s brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor remains under scrutiny for his past ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Congressional investigators have repeatedly sought his cooperation. Pressing lawmakers include Congressman Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Representative Lauren Boebart (R-CO), both on the House Oversight Committee. Survivor activist Rita Oh staged a mock tea party on Capitol Hill to demand a direct apology.

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The King said the strength of both societies lies in their “vibrant, diverse and free” character and that they must support victims of societal ills. Buckingham Palace later said the royal couple declined invitations to meet victims, citing “legal difficulties” and ongoing investigations. President Joe Biden may welcome the brief reference to victims.

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Lawmakers and survivors said the speech omitted any reference to Andrew’s Epstein ties. Congressman Khanna called the omission “a slap in the face.” Representative Boebart warned that the royal family’s “list of do’s and don’ts” mirrors a pattern of evading accountability. Rita Oh’s mock tea party featured an empty chair marked “Reserved for King Charles,” underscoring the unmet demand for an apology.

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The King’s speech gave an oblique nod to victims but no explicit mention of his brother or an apology. Congressional staff said they were told the address would include an acknowledgment of Epstein survivors, a promise not kept. Buckingham Palace’s reference to “legal difficulties” offers no detail on why victim meetings were declined.

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The episode highlights the diplomatic sensitivity of the British monarchy’s links to the Epstein case. A perceived avoidance of accountability could strain U.S.–U.K. relations, fuel public criticism of the royal family, and undermine confidence in congressional oversight of elite misconduct.

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The state visit proceeds on Wednesday and Thursday with further meetings with U.S. officials. Oversight Committee members say they will continue to press Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor for cooperation, and survivor groups plan additional demonstrations in Washington.

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• “Charles…made a fantastic speech today…he even got Democrats to stand. I’ve never been able to do that!” — Donald Trump, President of the United States

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• “Simply put: the King nailed it,” — Lindsey Graham, U.S. Senator (South Carolina)

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• “Very disappointing … he really failed to meet the moral moment,” — Ro Khanna, Congressman (California)

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• “This isn’t going to go away. We’re not going to remain silent. We will continue speaking out,” — Rita Oh, Survivor activist

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